Statement by the Delegation of the Republic of Indonesia at the 13th Session of the Working Group on Universal Periodic Review – Consideration of the UPR Report of the Netherlands

My delegation would like to thank the delegation of the Netherlands for their national report.

We commend the Netherlands government for ensuring inclusive consultations as well as comprehensive and broad coverage of their report, not only in the Netherlands but also in its three other countries of the Kingdom namely Aruba, Curacao and St. Marteen.

My delegation equally appreciates the passing of the Netherlands’ legislation, providing the establishment of National Institute on Human Rights which will operate in accordance with the Paris Principles. At this juncture, Indonesia wishes to recommend that the Netherlands accelerate the full operationalization of the Institute in the near future.

Madam President,

Indonesia welcomes continued measures on the eradication of trafficking in persons in the country, including the renewal of mandate of the Task Force on Human Trafficking and the passing of the bill by the Parliament which increases the maximum penalties for trafficking in human beings.

Public campaigns through advertisements on the internet and articles in free local papers, as well as close cooperation with main source countries of victims of trafficking are instrumental in tackling this appalling act.

Like in many other countries, racial discrimination and xenophobic sentiment are still challenging in the Nederlands. While Indonesia appreciates the ongoing Government efforts including through municipal anti-discrimination services and anti-discrimination action programme, it is indeed alarming that racism still exists.

Equally worrying that there are numerous reported cases where political and public figures, including media made discriminatory and discriminatory speech against Muslims. Therefore my delegation recommends that the Netherlands Government step up its efforts to comprehensively address this trend, not only from the freedom of expression perspective but also from socio-cultural point of view.

In conclusion, Madam President, Indonesia fully shares the view that promoting the observance of human rights is a never-ending task. It merits, and receives, constant attention within the national sphere, with a view to improving the human rights situation. We therefore wish the people and government of the Netherlands every success in their future endevours toward that objective.